Volunteer Spotlight: Donna Desjardins, Merrimac

Donna Desjardins does a little bit of everything at ONT.
In a typical week she will work three volunteer shifts - one at the meal, one in the market and one in the warehouse.
A Merrimac resident, Donna joined ONT as a way to get back on her feet after a life-changing medical challenge. Due to a rare disorder, Donna needed an emergency liver transplant in 2023 and couldn't wait to get moving again. "I couldn't sit idle. I had to work."
She first volunteered at the local library but found ONT better suited her desire to be active. And every day she works, she says she feels a little better than we she arrived. "No matter what my mood is, I always feel way better."
Amber Pittenger Tillson, ONT's Associate Director of Programs, says Donna brightens every shift she is part of. "From dressing up for holidays, bringing treats for people on their birthdays, and helping to decorate when there is a holiday at the Community Meal-- Donna brings joy to every part of the programs she touches!"
She even brings her personally knitted hats to give away at the Community Meal.
"I just like helping in some way," Donna says. "People need the help and there's not a mean person here."
Thank you Donna for all you do!​